The past few months have been incredibly challenging for us all as we adapt to life under the coronavirus pandemic.
Every day we hear of the trauma and disruption caused by the virus, and our hearts go out to everyone affected.
Among the obstacles we have faced at St Richard’s Hospice is to continue raising funds to support our care while our shops are closed, and fundraising events cancelled.
But through it all, bright lights of hope and compassion shine.
We have received so many acts of kindness from our community over the past few months, and we are truly humbled by the outpouring of support.
When we launched our Resilience Fund appeal at the end of March, we were blown away by the response.
Even in the most difficult of times, our supporters are sending in their donations to help us continue caring for patients and their loved ones, when we need it most.
It has been a pleasure to hear the many creative ways people are raising funds for our care: from sponsored pogo stick jumping, to marathons run in the back garden; hand-making beautiful ornaments to sell and so much more.
We have been delighted to see so many taking part in our virtual events: our quiz nights hosted by Richard ‘Hursty’ Hurst have been thoroughly enjoyable, and we know how much people have loved Aimee Ford’s virtual Zumbathons!
The NHS funds 22 per cent of our running costs, and we gratefully received a boost from the Government as part of its pledge to support hospices through the pandemic.
But it falls to us, backed by our generous supporters, to raise the majority of our running costs – ensuring we can continue to care for patients and loved ones across Worcestershire.
We have been hugely heartened by the support we have seen so far, and would like to send our sincere thanks to all those who have helped make a difference to our care in these most challenging times.
If you would like to donate, and feel able to, please visit strichards.org.uk/donate
Tricia Cavell, Fundraising Director at St Richard’s Hospice